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Jamaica Braces For Hurricane Melissa: Powerful Storms & Floods Expected, 2 Major Airports Shut Down

Hurricane Melissa

Jamaica and parts of the northern Caribbean are preparing for Hurricane Melissa’s landfall. The Atlantic hurricane season is rapidly approaching Jamaica with threats of intense rainfall, strong winds, and widespread flooding. Authorities have ordered the closure of the island’s two main airports and urged residents in low-lying areas to move to safer locations as emergency teams prepare for possible devastation. Here’s all you need to know about this.

Hurricane Melissa Intensifies As It Sets To Reach Jamaica

Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/12019 (representative image)

According to The Times of India, Jamaica is gearing up for the arrival of Hurricane Melissa. Officials have warned that the storm, with winds reaching 120 km/h and moving slowly at 2 km/h, is rapidly strengthening into a Category 1 hurricane. They said it could bring heavy storms, flooding, landslides, and power outages across the country.

Reports suggest that Hurricane Melissa could be one of the most powerful storms to hit Jamaica in recent years. On Saturday, nine of 31 provinces in Jamaica were already on red alert with warning signs of flash floods and landslides. PM Andrew Holness has also urged Jamaican citizens to heed warnings and be prepared to evacuate in the coming days.

As per the US National Hurricane Centre, Hurricane Melissa is likely to bring rainfall of 38 to 76 cm in Jamaica and part of southern Hispaniola. Jamaica experienced its last major hurricane in July 2024–Beryl. It was an unusually strong storm for the season in the region.

Also Read: Philippines Hit By Severe Tropical Storm Leading To Flight Cancellations, Floods And Chaos

Major Airports Shut Down In The Country

Bracing for Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica has shut down two international airports–Norman Manley International in Kingston and Sangster International in Montego Bay. According to Hindustan Times, the country has also activated 650 shelters. Furthermore, warehouses across the island have been stocked with essential supplies, including thousands of food packages, ready for quick distribution if needed.

Also Read: Will DGCA Ban Power Banks On Indian Flights? Here’s What We Know So Far!

The hurricane is likely to impact Jamaica this coming week.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/deberarr (representative image)

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Tashika Tyagi: Good coffee, charming cafes, indulgent desserts, and Indian street food - these are just a few things Tashika can never say 'no' to! When she’s not scouting out new spots to explore or eat at, you'll likely find her experimenting with Instagram recipes in the kitchen or binge-watching a K-drama.